We at Bear Goggles On have decided to count down the days until the Chicago Bears’ regular season opener on September 13th against their arch-rivals, the Green Bay Packers. As of today, there are 90 days until the big day, giving us a reason to profile #90 Jay Ratliff.
Things are looking up for the Chicago Bears on defense as the off season speeds by and we get closer to the season opener. Some much need changes have taken place to help turn the defense around in the attempt to get them back to looking like the Monsters of the Midway. A player to watch as these changes unfold is Jeremiah Ratliff.
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The eleven-year veteran is expected to have a huge impact on the defense pass rush, which would be picking up where he left off last year. In 2014, Ratliff played 11 games ending the season second in sacks with 6.5 behind the team sack leader Willie Young. At 33 years old Ratliff can be extremely effective and help bring some depth to the defensive line.
Unfortunately, there is one alarming factor about Ratliff, and that is his inability to stay healthy. In the past, he has been plagued with injuries each year causing him to miss multiple games a season. In 2014, he missed five games and the year prior, he only suited up six times for the Bears.
Nov 16, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears defensive tackle Jeremiah Ratliff (90) during the third quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
What to expect in 2015?
Big changes are in store for Ratliff this year; he has been asked to move from playing nose tackle to defensive end as a part of the revamped line being built by coordinator Vic Fangio. Although, it will be an adjustment for the four-time Pro Bowler, it is a challenge he is happy to take on. He told the Chicago Sun-Times, “I want to win. Wherever my team needs me, I’m going to be there. I’m going to make it work.”
It is good to hear he is embracing his new role without complaint. Maybe, Ratliff understands he is in his twilight years and Fangio’s defense maybe his last chance at winning or it’s because he is a true team player. Either way he is desperately needed if the Bears plan on making a run at the division title and the playoffs.
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